C1 Corvette

These pictures of a 1960 Corvette were posted online at the Corvette Forum by a member looking for some pricing help on what to offer the owner. According to the poster, the motor is gone, but 95% of the other parts that are off the car are in one of several boxes. At one time, a new front clip was installed. The Corvette has a 4-speed transmission and 31,200 miles are on the odometer. The owner has had it since 1970 and its been stored in this barn for the last ten years.

Following the thread, we learned the seller said he was looking for $10,000 but wasn’t firm. The Forum member ended up buying the Corvette for $7,500. Our Corvette Price Guide puts the value of an average 1960 Corvette roadster at $50,400 and the 1 year appreciation is 7%. So let’s throw this question out to you. What do you think? Was this a good price for a 1960 Corvette in its present condition or should the buyer have run away from this potential basket case?

Chevrolet Dealer and noted Corvette Collector Bob McDorman will be bringing 25 unique cars to Dana Mecum’s Spring Classic in Indianapolis in mid-May. Among those cars is the first true high-performance Corvette in history, the 1954 EX87 test mule that Corvette’s first Chief Engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov drove to 163 mph at the Arizona Proving Grounds.

It was in the mid-1950â€™s that Zora Arkus-Duntov had Daytona legend Smokey Yunick install an experimental V8 engine into a 1954 Corvette test mule. Following that test, EX87 was reissued a new tracking number of 5951 and was returned to Zora at Chevrolet Engineering to prepare for a high-speed record run at Daytona Beach in January 1956.

Duntov modified the Corvette by replacing the windshield with a curved Plexiglas windscreen and fitting a fiberglass tonneau cover over the passenger side of the cockpit. Zora also fabricated a fiberglass headrest-tailfin for high speed stability.

Zora then went to work on the engine, increasing displacement from 283 to 307 ci and ordered a special camshaft from Engineering before loading EX87 onto a trailer and heading for GM’s Arizona Desert Proving Ground.

Engineering delivered “Duntov’s Cam” to the proving grounds and once installed, the test mule set a new record of 163 miles per hour. That cam became know as the “Duntov Cam”.

Once testing at the proving grounds was completed, the engine was pulled and installed in another famous Corvette #6901 which set a new record at Daytona with a run of 150.583 mph.

Following the death of Smokey Yunick in 2001, his widow called friend Steve Tate and said she had “some stuff around the shop” and to come see if there was anything he wanted. Among that “stuff” was an engine marked “Record Run”, the same engine Smokey installed in EX87/5951.

Tate tracked down the car and purchased it and its original Chevrolet experimental log book. Tate restored the Corvette and reunited it with the engine that set records so long ago. Upon completion, the Corvette was featured at the 2003 Bloomington Gold Corvette show.

The 1954 EX87 Corvette is one of the featured cars being auction by Mecum at the company’s Spring Classic in Indianapolis on Friday, May 15th. The auction will be part of the Mecum’s Muscle Cars and More TV show on HD Theater. Visit Mecum Auctions for more info and the car list for the Original Spring Classic Auction.

At last weekend’s Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Palm Beach, Florida, this 1959 Corvette Resto-Mod stole the show and ended up at the top of the Corvette pricing chart for the three day event. The custom C1 roadster hammered for $135,000 and with a 10% buyers commission, the total price rose to $148,500.

1959 Corvette catalog description from Barrett-Jackson:

Features a new custom body with a custom chassis, chrome C4 suspension, new C4 4-wheel disc brakes, new GM LS3 Cammer engine with 500hp and a 2 year GM warranty. Equipped with all chrome components from Street & Performance including a 4L60E 4-speed.

A 1959 custom Corvette that was just completed. Features a new custom body with a professionally-built custom chassis, chromed C4 front and rear suspension with 5-way dampened chrome Aldan shocks, new drilled and slotted C4 4-wheel disc brakes, a brand new GM LS3 Cammer engine with 500hp and a 2-year GM warranty. It is fully equipped with all chrome components from Street & Performance including a 4L60E 4-speed transmission. The car has power steering, power brakes, tilt wheel, air conditioning, power windows and custom polished stainless steel Magnaflow exhaust. It is also equipped with AM/FM/CD stereo with 7″ LCD screen for rear view camera plus DVD player,18″ Intro wheels on front and 20″ on back with Nitro Extreme tires, power activated hood and trunk. The custom Ivory and Red/Orange leather interior is beautifully done. Car does not come with a top, but a standard 1959 Corvette hard or softtop will fit. The car has attended 2008 Bowling Green Goodguys Show where it received a Fab 5 Pick. It drives like a new ‘Vette and is absolutely stunning.

Corvette Sales for the three day auction event raised over $2.15 million. Click here for the Corvette Auction Results from Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach.

While many dealers are offering special deals and financing to help sell Corvettes during this sluggish economy, leave it to Proteam Corvette’s Terry Michaelis to offer a real incentive to save on 36 Corvettes. Dubbed the Stimulus Sale, Proteam has dropped the prices significantly on a number of Corvettes in their inventory and we’re not just talking about junk. On the list are fuelies, big blocks, matching numbers/Bloomington Gold examples and the savings are as much as $50,000.

1009A..1964 Corvette Miss Mako Convertible, two tops, fuel injected 350 with parade friendly automatic, factory original body/trim tag. Custom Dark Blue replica painted to emulate one of nature’s most feared creatures, the “Mako Shark”, of which, the original multi-million dollar Mako Shark is owned by the GM Heritage Collection. Miss Mako is a one-of-a-kind feminine replica of Bill Mitchells’ original Mako Shark I concept car. Mr. Mitchell caught a Mako shark while he was shark fishing and it sparked the idea in him to style the next Corvette after the sleek and speedy fish. Internationally famous Miss Mako toured the USA over a two year period covering over 80,000 miles raising money for local charities at national Corvette and car shows cementing its place in Corvette folklore. Optioned with unique Mako Shark side exhaust, power steering, power brakes, auxiliary hardtop, AM/FM stereo cassette radio, back-up lights, seat belts, polished American torque thrust II wheels and blackwall radials. Most all factory correct type components. This car has been featured in Corvette Fever, Vette Magazine, Vette Views, Cars and Parts magazine and the National Corvette Museum American Sports Car Magazine. Its past owner was Joan Spoerndle known as MakoMama. For more information on Miss Mako and its Corvette folklore, just google Miss Mako. Looks, runs, and drives excellent. CC:+2 $69,998.00 – Now $55,000. Click here to view more

Visit Proteam Corvette to view the list of Corvettes being offered in the Stimulus Sale. Terry tells us that prices are firm and no trade ins will be accepted. The Stimulus Sale ends on March 30th so you better get moving if you want to save on some of the finest classic Corvettes offered for sale.

In our final analysis of 2008′s Corvette prices, we present an overview of Corvette values by generation. This is an interesting time for Corvette buyers as many models are still showing appreciation despite the lagging market. And with some of the more collectible Corvettes giving back some of the pricing gains earned over the last couple of years, this could be a real buying opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts should the right Corvette present itself.

The following are highlights from our 2009 Corvette Price Guide:

1953-1962:
The first generation Corvettes had mixed results with some models showing a negative 5-7% depreciation factor, while on the plus side of the ledger appreciation results ranged for 2-9%. The high average price for this series was the 1953 Roadster at $294,500. At the low end of the price scale was the 1961 Roadster at an average price of $45,000, showing an appreciation factor of 2%. We expect the 1953 model to continue to show depreciation in average price with the majority of these solid axles showing positive results for the 2009 calendar year.

1963-1967:
The mid-years have regained the appreciation lead with all models showing an appreciation factor of 4-9%. The price leader in average price continues to be the 1967 Roadster at an average price of $61,000. The entry level price for the mid-years continues to be the 1964 Coupe at $35,000 in average price.

1968-1982:
The average price range for this generation of Corvettes starts at $9,200, the average price of a 1978 T- Top that showed no change in average price from last year. The average price for the series tops out at $29,500, the average price of the 1970 Roadster that showed an appreciation factor of 7%. The average price of the third generation Corvettes ranges from a depreciation factor of -8% to a +10% appreciation factor.

1984-1996:
There was quite a change last year in the average price for the fourth generation Corvette models. Our 2008 Price Guide showed many with single digit appreciation factors and a few in the double digit range. The 2009 Price Guide shows none in the appreciation column with two holding on as â€˜no changeâ€™ in average price. Several are now showing double digit depreciation. The high average price for this series is $52,000, going to the 1996 Grand Sport Roadster. The low end is represented by the 1984 Coupe with an average price of $8,600 and a 1% depreciation factor. Hurting the average price of this series is the pricing of the C5 Corvettes with many selling under the $20,000 mark in average price.

1997-2004:
This series continues to show negative results in average price ranging from a -6% to -18%. The high average price for this series is $31,000, going to a 2003 Anniversary Roadster that showed a â€“9% depreciation factor. As we have said on numerous occasions, one buys a lot of Corvette power in this series for under $20,000. At some point soon, the double digit depreciation factors will improve to single digits.

2005-2009:
As expected, all models are showing double digit depreciation in average resale price. We donâ€™t expect this to subside since average prices start at $31,500 for a 2005 Coupe and top out at $64,000 for the Ron Fellows Special Edition Z06. The state of the US economy will continue to have a major negative impact on the average price of these Corvettes.

The 2009 Corvette Price Guide covers all Corvette years and body styles with high, low and average prices for each Corvette model. Another important feature of the Price Guide is the provisional one, two and five year appreciation factors for each Corvette.

In addition, the Corvette Price Guide provides the original base price and the number of units manufactured. To complete the content, included is information on motors, wheels, hard tops and factory air conditioning. Price is $15 and shipping is free!

Bob Kroupa of VETTE-N-VESTMENTS provided this analysis of 2008′s generational highlights. VETTE-N-VESTMENTS is the data provider for the annual guide and publisher of the monthly Corvette Market Letter.

Dragstrip Riot promises motorcycle gangs, hot rodders, death, romance and redemption! After a run-in with a tough motorcycle gang, Gary Clarke is blamed for the death of biker. The gang threatens him and his girlfriend and the story comes to a head with a full biker beach riot.

Here is yet another Corvette race car that’s now for sale. This 1957 Corvette roadster was raced back in the sixties and seventies but its most successful campaign came in 1998 when the owner competed in and won the SVRA Paine-Weber Endurance Championship.

Powered by a 283 cubic inch V8 built by Compton Race Engines, this yellow roadster is ready to race. The Corvette underwent a restoration following the 2006 season and is currently set up for competition as a vintage racer. In addition to the new 283 ci V8, the roadster features an upgraded T-10 transmission, new ram clutch, drive shaft and flywheel. A holly 750 delivers the fuel from an ATL 40 gallon fuel cell and cold air box insures plenty of oxygen to the powerplant.

On the outside, the Corvette was repainted in Chrome Yellow and has white racing stripes, racing numbers, grill bar and new ovals. The Corvette can be raced with or without its included hardtop.

Keith – This is one of the better prepared straight axle vintage racers. The only thing holding back its value is lack of documented racing history. That would put it in a class with Bob Mouat’s 1957 COPO Air box Fuelie and other straight axles that were actually raced, most of which we know well and are now sitting in museums.

Mac Lyle of Rock Hill, SC built the car. I have not seen it on the circuit since 1998 when they blitzed the SVRA to win the Paine-Weber Endurance Championship.

The downside is that the car is way too race improved and would probably not be allowed in the Monterey Historic. And although it would be a fun car to drive in SVRA or HSR races, the asking price of $65K seems a bit steep compared with what else that will buy to go vintage racing.

Jan Hyde – Registry of Corvette Racecars

So that being said, here’s your chance to own a vintage Corvette race car that’s track ready. The current bid is $25,427 and the Corvette has a “Buy It Now” price set at $65,000. The auction runs ends Saturday.

Another week, another vintage Corvette race car hitting the auction block. We received word today that the ex-Bob Mouat 1957 Corvette COPO Air-Box Fuelie will be joining the 1965 Corvette 8-Ball Cobra Killer at Worldwide Auctioneer’s Houston Classic on Saturday May 2nd.

This 1957 Corvette was delivered new to Bob Mouat in 1957 and raced until 1965 achieving 21 victories and over 50 top ten finishes. Extensively documented, its one of 23 Air-Box examples known and this is only one of six factory COPO Airbox Corvettes aquired by known racing drivers.

Are you and your Corvette snowbound? Now is the time a lot of guys work on their cars because old man winter is keeping their Corvettes off the roads. Want to spend some quality time upgrading your Corvette without breaking the bank? We turned to Ecklers Corvette Parts for some seriously easy Corvette restoration projects to get you through the winter while keeping some green in your pocket.

Corvette Emblem Assembly, 1958-1960 Front, 1958-1961 RearReproduction Of Original. Includes Gold Emblem, Bezel, Gasket, Speed Nuts & Silver Backplate. This Corvette reproduction front and rear emblem assembly has been manufactured to original factory specifications using today’s modern manufacturing techniques. You will find the fit and finish will work superbly for your restoration. In addition, using a reproduction front and rear emblem assembly from Eckler’s will add authenticity and value to your Corvette. Did you know? Many people in our hobby refer to the front emblem as a nose emblem.

Corvette Clock, Quartz, 1958-1962Impress your friends and fellow Corvette club members by replacing your broken clock with this original looking replacement which features a modern reliable quartz movement. As the clock is one of the focal points in your C1 Corvette, why not have one that works? You’ll be able to drive with pride know that ALL gauges are working and your wife will appreciate your new found ability to tell time while driving your Corvette! Just pop out your old clock and install the new one and never be late your club gathering again.

Corvette Parking Light Assembly, 1963-1967Reproduction Of Original with Correct Lens Markings On Outer Edge “AMBER 595440″ & “CRYSTAL 5950982″ Center Markings “GUIDE F2=60″.
This Corvette reproduction parking light assembly has been manufactured to original factory specifications using today’s modern manufacturing techniques. You will find the fit and function will work superbly for your restoration and the installation process couldn’t be easier. In addition, using a reproduction parking light assembly from Eckler’s will add authenticity and value to your Corvette.

Corvette Taillight Set, With Back-Up Lights, 1963-1966Over time Corvette taillights dim and the lenses darken. New lights and signals will improve visibility as well as make your Corvette look great. These reproduction lights are made in the USA with original GM tooling and they are quite simple to install.

Corvette Power Window Switch, 1968-1982Are your power windows switches not working correctly or has the finish worn off? Many times a replacement switch will solve your power window woes. For about $20 each, you’re looking at a cheap way to add that sparkle and bling back your window switches. For what its worth, I just installed these on my 1979 Corvette and couldn’t be happier with the good response and great looks.

Ecklers Corvette Parts has been in business for over 40 years and is one of the most trusted names in the corvette hobby. With over 20,000 products and accessories, you’ll find something your Corvette needs in the Ecklers catalog. Visit Ecklers Corvette Parts today and request your free catalog.

This vintage poster features five 1960 Corvette Roadsters driving in formation and poses the question: “For ten seconds try to imagine what owning a Corvette would be like…” As Corvette owners, we can agree with the answer: “You’re close, but it’s better than that!”

Charles D. Fowler, III: I stopped subsribing to both after many years, and within a year or two of even having a “feature” article accepted and published, after meeting Corvette Fever execs at Carlisle. With the merger, I...

Jeff McKay: I also asked a local dealer and they knew nothing about it. How do I order it myself? I think that would be faster than trying to convince them they should know about it.

CrystalKnight: I have always loved the 63, one of my favorite classics of all time, and I have had a many sports cars…, owned and loved the C5 even though it was heavy and underpowered, owned and loved the C6 convertible. ….I...

CrystalKnight: I have always loved the 63, one of my favorite classics of all time, and I have had a many sports cars…, owned and loved the C5 even though it was heavy and underpowered, owned and loved the C6 convertible. ….I...

tonyman262: I have an 89 C4 & an 07 C6, both white. After seeing the CUE system; the daughter may get the 07, I NEED a C7 with the CUE system. The 89 C4 stays with me. The C7 (artic white of course) could just end up being the new...